Water Birch (River Birch)

Scientific Name: Betula occidentalis

Add a graceful native tree to your moist landscape with Water Birch (Betula occidentalis), also sold as western river birch, found along waterways throughout British Columbia. Its shining bark and airy canopy bring elegance to riparian plantings.

Water Birch is well adapted to the moist soils along streams and wetlands in Interior BC. Its glossy reddish-brown bark, small toothed leaves, and multi-stemmed form make it excellent for streambank stabilization and watershed restoration.

Growing naturally along rivers, creeks, and seepage areas, this hardy birch provides shade, cover, and habitat while helping to hold moist banks and shorelines in place.

Features

Native to British Columbia and western Canada
Glossy reddish-brown bark
Airy, multi-stemmed form
Thrives along streams and wetlands
Provides shade and cools waterways
Supports birds, pollinators, and insects
Ideal for streambank and watershed restoration
Resistant to bronze birch borer, unlike many ornamental birches

Growing Information

Mature Height: 5 to 12 m (16 to 40 ft)

Spread: 3 to 6 m (10 to 20 ft)

Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade

Soil Requirements: Moist to wet, well-drained soils

Moisture Requirements: Moderate to high

Hardiness Zone: 2 to 7

Ecological Benefits

Water Birch provides cover, catkins, and seed for birds and insects, and its roots stabilize moist streambanks and reduce erosion. Its shade helps cool waterways for aquatic life. This species supports watershed and riparian restoration. Please note: this is the western native water birch, not the eastern River Birch (Betula nigra), which is a different species and is not native to British Columbia. Water Birch is not drought tolerant and needs a reliably moist site.

Please note: As a native plant, size and appearance may vary depending on the season and stage of growth.

habitat restoration plants

Water Birch 1 Gal | BC Native Riparian Tree | Shackan Nursery

Water Birch Plug